ESL makes new Facebook deal non-exclusive

Esports giant ESL has expanded its streaming agreement with Facebook to include all of its global competitions in 2019.

However, in a significant change to the terms of the original agreement, Facebook will no longer benefit from non-exclusive rights.

It means that events such as Intel Extreme Masters, ESL One, and ESL Pro League for CS:GO will also be available on Twitch and other platforms, and follows criticism from some esports fans unhappy with the video quality of the Facebook coverage.

Commenting on the new agreement, Leo Olebe, Global Director, Games Partnerships at Facebook, said. "Providing ESL fans a way to watch esports on multiple platforms is something we know the community cares about, and that's a big reason why all 2019 content will broadcast anywhere ESL chooses to stream.

“We'll continue to listen and act on feedback from gamers as we work together in building the world's gaming community."

Ralf Reichert, ESL Co-CEO, added: “ESL will be providing multiple sources in which fans can experience our flagship circuits online - including a return to Facebook Gaming to continue bringing content to its rapidly growing audience."